Can I use a fungicide?

You can use a copper based fungicide if the infection is severe, but keeping the leaves dry is much more effective.

Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing damaged leaves helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth and reduces the amount of fungus present.

Pigeon Pea: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for fungal growth.
Check if the soil is staying too wet for too long.
Look for signs of pests that might be damaging the leaf surface.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Possible
How to tell: You will see small, dark brown or black circular spots that may have a yellow halo around them. These spots often appear after periods of heavy rain or high humidity.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant by thinning out dense branches and avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.
Bacterial blight
Possible
How to tell: This causes water soaked spots that eventually turn brown and crispy. The spots might look irregular and often appear on the lower leaves first.
What to do: Prune away infected branches and dispose of them in the trash, not your compost pile. Keep the area around the base of the plant clean of debris to prevent bacteria from splashing back up.

Find out what's wrong with your pigeon pea

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the spots are spreading rapidly to new growth or if the entire plant begins to yellow. A few spots on older leaves are usually just part of the plant aging.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves, and ensure your Pigeon Pea has plenty of space for air to circulate.

Keep your pigeon pea healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Can I use a fungicide?: You can use a copper based fungicide if the infection is severe, but keeping the leaves dry is much more effective.
Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?: Yes, removing damaged leaves helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth and reduces the amount of fungus present.

Why does my Pigeon Pea have spots on its leaves?